I was looking for one key bullet in your list - comfort with electronics and mechanical DIY, knowledge of electronics, etc. If you have this attribute, then honestly speaking your options increase exponentially. If not, still its not a big worry, except that you have to be a bit more prudent with your choices and do a lot of online reading.
Another key factor is your record library or planned collection. There are factors like used vs new, non-indian vs indian pressing, source of used records (if buying used), type of cartridge you either get with the turntable or buy separately, phonostage - either external or internal (to the TT or amp), etc.
Your budget is a good one. Usually (thanks to ebay), indian sellers over price TTs and have now learnt tricks like selling TTs without the headshell and cartridge, including cartridges without stylus, etc. For starters, always buy a TT with a cartridge and working stylus so all you'd need to do is plug it in and play. I always advise those who start to avoid idler drive type turntables as these are likely to be old and need to be fully restored. Belt drive turntable are tricky too. Always check with the forum members about the model before buying it. Most of the modern plastic belt drive turntables in your budget range are essentially rubbish so dont waste money on them. They look shiney and seem easy to operate (being essentially automatic) but very soon you'll start noticing their deficiencies. For a first timer, a direct drive turntable is always a great starting point. There are many available in this segment. The best of course is Technics and hence you'd find Technics turntables priced rather highly (remember to look for the headshell, cartridge and stylus inclusion) but there are some other direct drives from the likes of Sony, Akai, Pioneer, JVC, Kenwood, Hitachi, etc that are really good and can be bought cheap as they dont command as much resale value as Technics. Pioneer made some good belt drive turntables as well like the PL12 so if you get these, even these could be a good investment (remember the belt is expensive to buy online so ensure that you get a good belt and not a patched or tight one). If buying Indian direct drives like Cosmic, Sonodyne, etc you will have to get it fully recapped for better speed accuracy and performance.
Regarding availability, there are so many available on olx especially in and around bangalore but whenever buying used, always take a knowledgeable person with you and audition. Always enquire the history and also keep an eye on the demography of the seller. The best equipment is always bought used from enthusiasts who are upgrading or enthusiasts who are genuine collectors of good equipment. You'd usually end up with either pristine or well maintained equipment. In my opinion, the demography to be avoided is the seller who masquerades as an enthusiast, they are often famous for leveraging parts, replacing parts with damaged or worn ones, patching broken parts and putting them in turntables that they sell. A seller of used electronics is not bad if you know or get a reference from an existing customer of the person. They usually have good stuff or good repairable stuff, however likely to be overpriced. A knowledgeable eye can help you easily deal with them.
All the very best!
)
